genetic variation

USAGE SUMMARY

"genetic variation" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It refers to the diversity of traits and characteristics within a species due to differences in their genetic makeup. Example: "The survival of a species depends on its ability to adapt to changing environmental conditions, which is largely determined by the level of genetic variation present in the population."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

50 human-written examples

The researchers found the genetic variation in two samples.

The New York Times - Science

Some have suggested the species was vulnerable to extinction because of a lack of genetic variation.

The New York Times - Science

However, most human genetic variation occurs from person to person within any ethnic group.

The New York Times

People who do not have either genetic variation can still develop the disease.

The New York Times

This means there is greater genetic variation within 'racial' groups than between them".

The Guardian - Sport

But not all genetic variation comes in the form of these one-letter typos.

The New York Times - Magazine

The genetic variation, called a SNP, or snip, involves a change in one unit of DNA.

The New York Times - Science

Then she heard about a genetic variation that predisposes some people to nicotine addiction.

The New York Times - Health

He points out that there is no discrete genetic variation known to cause depression.

The Guardian

What is most exciting about this area is the ability we now have to explore genetic variation directly, not through twin, family and adoption studies but through the direct measurement of genetic variation in the population.

The Guardian

These comparisons, called heritability studies, aimed to measure the relative contributions of genetic variation versus environmental variation.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing the importance of "genetic variation" for adaptation, consider specifying the types of environmental pressures that a population might face. Be specific about the selective pressures.

Common error

Avoid attributing "genetic variation" solely to mutation. Recombination, gene flow, and other factors also play significant roles. Acknowledge the multiple mechanisms that contribute to genetic diversity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "genetic variation" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. As Ludwig shows, it describes a specific characteristic of a population or species.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

60%

News & Media

30%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "genetic variation" is a frequently used noun phrase primarily functioning in scientific and news contexts. Ludwig's analysis affirms its grammatical correctness and highlights its role in discussions of evolution, adaptation, and genetic diversity. While predominantly formal and scientific, the phrase also appears in news media, signifying its relevance to broader audiences. Understanding "genetic variation" is crucial for comprehending biological processes and addressing challenges related to conservation and public health.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

genomic diversity

Specifically refers to the diversity found within the genome.

heritable diversity

Focuses on the aspect of variation that can be passed down through generations.

allelic variation

Highlights variation at the level of alleles, different forms of a gene.

gene pool diversity

Emphasizes the variety of genes within a population's gene pool.

sequence polymorphism

Refers to variations in DNA sequences among individuals or populations.

inherited differences

A broader term emphasizing the differences that are passed down.

hereditary differences

Similar to "inherited differences" but with a slightly more formal tone.

population variability

Focuses on the range of differences observable within a population.

trait diversity

Highlights the variety of observable characteristics or traits.

biological diversity

A very broad term encompassing all forms of variation in living organisms.

FAQs

How is "genetic variation" measured in a population?

Scientists use various methods, including analyzing DNA sequences, examining observable traits, and employing statistical analyses to quantify the amount of "genetic variation" present within a population.

What factors influence the amount of "genetic variation" in a population?

Factors such as mutation rate, population size, gene flow, and natural selection can all influence the level of "genetic variation". Small populations, for example, may experience reduced variation due to genetic drift.

What are the implications of low "genetic variation"?

Low "genetic variation" can make a population more vulnerable to environmental changes and diseases, as there is less raw material for natural selection to act upon. This can increase the risk of extinction.

How does "genetic variation" contribute to evolution?

"Genetic variation" provides the raw material upon which natural selection acts. Without "genetic variation", populations cannot adapt to changing environments or evolve new traits. Natural selection acts on existing variation, favoring individuals with traits that enhance survival and reproduction.